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Ritz Carlton Wedding: Marie & Nathan’s Luxe Laguna Niguel Celebration
Ritz-Carlton. You’ve heard the name (who hasn’t?). It’s practically synonymous with luxury, romance, and those dreamy ocean views that make your heart skip a beat. So when we got the scoop on this stunning wedding at the Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel, we knew it deserved a front-row seat on Bespoke Bride. 💍✨ Dive into Marie’s story of love, laughter, and full-circle moments—and don’t miss our tips at the end for planning your own Ritz Carlton wedding of dreams!
Ashley Paige Photography
Ashley Paige Photography
Ashley Paige Photography
Ashley Paige Photography
Interview with the Bride, Marie Steinle…
1. A moment of your wedding day you will never forget?
Walking down the aisle and seeing my new husband’s smiling face. Then, looking around and seeing all of our close family and friends in one place! The sun had just come out, and the skies were clear. It was so incredible seeing all of the people I love in the same place at the same time – that will never happen again!
2. One thing you wish you knew as a new bride? What advice would you give to future brides?
It is okay to be selfish on your wedding day. We are always so worried about making all of our family/friends/loved ones happy. I was so concerned about everyone else having fun and enjoying themselves, and I made a big effort to personally greet each person at the wedding. Halfway through the evening, I focused on dancing with my new husband and making memories for us. I am so glad I did because I actually got to enjoy our amazing band and at least some of the food. My husband and I joke that we wish we could have been guests at our own wedding!
Ashley Paige Photography
Ashley Paige Photography
Ashley Paige Photography
Ask ahead of time to have at least one of each of the appetizers, entrees, cake, etc, boxed up and sent to your room. We never got to try a lot of our food and only had a few bites of cake. Once we got back to the room, we were so hungry! Thankfully, they had boxed up some of our entrees, but that was all.
One other piece of advice is to speak up if you don’t like something! I was so worried I would come off as a bridezilla when I saw my initial bouquet and thought it was totally hideous. Thankfully, my bridesmaids confirmed with me that I was not being ridiculous for asking for a revision. I am so glad I did because it would have been such a thorn in my side seeing that original bouquet in all the photos.
3. A detail that made your wedding special/unique?
Growing up, I was in Junior Lifeguard at Salt Creek Beach in Dana Point, CA. It continues to be one of my favorite beaches. Since then, it has always been my dream to get married at the same beach that I spent so many summers as a kid. We got married at the Ritz Carlton Laguna Niguel, which overlooks that same beach. The morning of the wedding, as I was getting ready, I saw the junior lifeguards doing the same drills and practice that I did as a child! It was an amazing full-circle moment.
Ashley Paige Photography
Ashley Paige Photography
Ashley Paige Photography
4. How did you know your dress was ‘the one’?
The first time I tried it on, I felt the most beautiful I had ever felt before! It hugged my curves in all the right places. The dress was classy and elegant, but also showed off the work I put into my physique at the gym.
After that, I tried on way too many dresses. I happened to be in New York during Bridal Fashion Week and tried on dresses at almost every major bridal shop from many of the top designers. None of them made me feel the way that Maya from Galia Lahav made me feel! I kept coming back to my same dress. I knew it was the one from the beginning, but then I was certain after trying on so many different dresses.
5. How did it feel when you put on your dress on the day of the wedding? What was everyone’s reaction to the dress?
The dress felt absolutely magical on the day of the wedding. I got so many compliments on the beautiful appliqué and lace details on the dress. I had not shown anyone my dress ahead of time, so no one knew what to expect!
Ashley Paige Photography
Ashley Paige Photography
Ashley Paige Photography
6. Would you have done anything differently?
I would have tried on fewer dresses after knowing in my head that Maya was the one!
7. What was your favorite part of the wedding to plan you were most looking forward to planning?
My favorite part of the wedding to plan was our first dance! My husband and I started lessons months before the wedding. We are both very busy working professionals with demanding jobs, so at times it felt daunting to have our lesson during the week when we had so much stuff going on. I am so glad we did because I loved learning our dance together and practicing in our living room – those are our favorite memories!
Ashley Paige Photography
Ashley Paige Photography
Ashley Paige Photography
8. How did you meet your husband? How did he propose?
Nathan and I met on Hinge! We actually lived just a few blocks away at the time, and unbeknownst to me, he ran by my apartment almost every day in the morning. We are both surgeons – Nathan is a retina surgeon, and I am an orthopedic hand surgeon. From our busy schedules, our paths would not have crossed! We were barely able to schedule our first date between my call schedule and Nathan’s travel/work schedule. We immediately hit it off and shut down the restaurant at closing on our first date.
We got engaged in Cairo, Egypt, overlooking the Nile River. We both love to travel and love history, so our favorite destinations involve historical sites. After a day of sightseeing, we had a romantic dinner in our room. He proposed at the end of the dinner while overlooking the Nile River! The next day, he had already scheduled a photoshoot for us at the Great Pyramid of Giza. My favorite memory is trying to hold hands with my new fiancé while on camelback wearing a gown and heels!
9. How did you find working with the team at Galia Lahav?
I loved working with the team. I don’t live in a major city. They worked with me to get appointments for fittings weeks in advance so that there were no last-minute surprises. They helped me find the perfect earrings that matched perfectly with the dress.
My tailor was incredible – I told her I had a very involved dance with dramatic dips and lifts. She made sure the dress was fitted but also comfortable, with no concern for any slips!
Ashley Paige Photography
Ashley Paige Photography
Ashley Paige Photography
10. How many dresses did you try on before you found it?
I had seen photos of the Maya and always wanted to try it on. It was one of the first five dresses I made a point to seek out and try on. After that, I tried on way too many dresses, but all of my experiences led me back to Maya. It became the dress from which I compared all others.
Vendor List:
Venue: @ritzcarltonlagunaniguel
Photography: @ashleypaigephoto
Planning: @intertwinedamy @intertwinedevents
Hair: @avenuebeautyteam
Makeup: @makeupbymarine
Paper Goods: @riverandbridge
Florals and Decor: @tbdsandiego
Rentals: @sigpartyrentals
Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Musician: @stevesiupiano
Band: @downbeat.agency
Videography: @samengfilms
Tips on How to Plan Your Own Ritz Carlton Wedding
Okay, darlings, pull up a velvet armchair and let’s chat about something truly spectacular: planning a Ritz Carlton wedding. If you’re dreaming of an affair where every detail sparkles with unparalleled elegance, a Ritz Carlton property might just be your perfect match. These iconic venues aren’t just hotels; they’re canvases for creating timeless memories, offering impeccable service and breathtaking backdrops that truly elevate your special day.
Is a Ritz Carlton Wedding Right for You?
Choosing a Ritz Carlton wedding is like opting for a couture gown over off-the-rack; it’s a choice for bespoke luxury and a seamless experience. But is it the right fit for your vision? Think about it this way: are you picturing white-gloved service, exquisite culinary experiences, and a level of personal attention that anticipates your every need before you even voice it? If the answer is a resounding “yes,” then you’re definitely on the right track.
I remember attending a stunning Ritz Carlton wedding in Laguna Niguel a few years back. The ocean views were incredible, of course, but what truly blew me away was how the staff seemed to float, appearing precisely when needed, always with a warm smile. The bride later told me her planner said it was like having a secret army of wedding fairies!
What to Know Before Planning Your Ritz Carlton Wedding?
Alright, so you’re leaning towards the Ritz. Fantastic! Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of what to consider. It’s not just about booking a ballroom; it’s about understanding the unique ecosystem of luxury event planning.
- Budget, of course, is key: Let’s be honest, a Ritz Carlton experience comes with a price tag that reflects its prestige. This isn’t the venue for a shoestring budget, and that’s perfectly okay. Knowing your financial comfort zone upfront will help you have more realistic conversations.
- The dedicated wedding specialist: Every Ritz Carlton has a specialist who is essentially your fairy godmother for the planning process. They know the ins and outs of their property, from the best spots for sunset photos to the most delectable canapé pairings. Leverage their expertise! I once interviewed a bride who said her Ritz Carlton specialist in Orlando suggested a late-night dessert bar that was an absolute hit, something she never would have thought of on her own. It’s those little touches that make all the difference.
- Embrace the existing aesthetic: Ritz Carlton properties are designed with inherent grandeur. While you can certainly personalize, work with the existing beauty rather than against it. Often, less is more when the backdrop is already this spectacular.
Here’s a quick look at some pros and cons to help you weigh your options:
| Pros of a Ritz Carlton Wedding | Cons of a Ritz Carlton Wedding |
| Unmatched service and attention to detail | Higher price point compared to other venues |
| Exquisite culinary experiences | Less flexibility for DIY elements |
| Luxurious accommodations for you and your guests | May require booking far in advance, especially for peak dates |
| Stunning, well-maintained venues and grounds | Potential for less “rustic” or casual vibe if that’s your dream |
| Dedicated wedding specialists to guide you |
Your Ritz Carlton Wedding: The Details That Matter
When you commit to a Ritz Carlton wedding, you’re not just buying a venue; you’re investing in an experience. Here’s where your vision truly comes to life.
- Culinary Excellence: The food and beverage program at the Ritz is legendary. From bespoke menus crafted with your preferences in mind to innovative cocktail creations, prepare for a feast. Don’t be afraid to ask for tastings and truly customize your spread.
- Guest Experience: Your guests will be pampered. Think beyond the wedding day itself – consider welcome amenities, spa access, and comfortable stays. This elevates the entire celebration into a memorable mini-vacation for everyone involved.
- Vendor Coordination: While your Ritz specialist will be a hub, they’ll also work seamlessly with your other trusted vendors – photographers, florists, entertainment. This coordination ensures everything runs like a well-oiled machine.
What about a smaller, more intimate Ritz Carlton wedding?
Yes, absolutely! While the Ritz often evokes grand affairs, many locations offer beautiful spaces for intimate celebrations. Don’t assume you need a massive guest list to experience their luxury. They are often fantastic for elegant elopements or micro-weddings.
Can I bring in my own caterer for a Ritz Carlton wedding?
Typically, no. Ritz Carlton properties pride themselves on their in-house culinary teams and high standards. External catering is usually not permitted, but it’s always worth discussing specific dietary needs or unique cultural requirements with your dedicated specialist.
What are common hidden costs to look out for at a luxury hotel wedding?
Beyond the per-person package, consider:
- Service charges and taxes: These can add a significant percentage to your total.
- Lighting and AV: Basic lighting might be included, but custom uplighting or complex sound setups will be extra.
- Vendor meals: Don’t forget to account for feeding your photography team, band, etc.
- Overtime fees: If your party runs late, expect additional charges for staff.
For more detailed budgeting insights, check out our guide on wedding budget breakdowns at https://www.bespoke-bride.com/wedding-budget-guide.
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